Checked Patterns To Help Fight Cancer

A new campaign has been launched urging people to get checked for potential symptoms of cancer as soon as they spot them.

The Scottish Government and Cancer Research UK are asking people to wear checked patterns in support of finding cancer early, with the hope they will become synonymous.

The #GetChecked campaign was launched today by celebrity vocal coach Yvie Burnett and Lindsay Blake from Burntisland, Fife, who survived breast cancer after early detection, at the M&Co store in Edinburgh's Gyle Shopping Centre.

The campaign will be promoted in the firm's network of stores across Scotland.

Statistics show the likelihood of surviving breast cancer is five times higher if detected at an early stage compared to a late stage, 14 times higher for bowel cancer and 20 times higher for lung cancer.

Ms Blake, 42, said: "I was on holiday in Turkey when I first spotted a small indentation in my right breast that I'd never seen before.

"As soon as I got home I went to my GP to get it checked out and was referred to hospital for a mammogram, ultrasound and a biopsy.

"It's so important women and men of all ages get to know their body by looking and checking themselves regularly, then if they find any unusual changes or feel unwell go to see the GP.''

Health Secretary Shona Robison said: "We know more about cancer today than ever before and thanks to early detection, research breakthroughs and treatment advances, half of men and women now survive cancer in Scotland. But early detection is key to further boosting survival rates.

"Having the support of M&Co, Cancer Research UK's charity partner, who will be displaying checks throughout their 60 stores, will help create the association between checks and 'getting checked' and lead to early detection.

"We want to empower people to visit their GP or attend a screening appointment as well as encouraging their loved ones to do the same.''